King James Version
What Does Ruth 4:16 Mean?
“And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it.”
Context
14
And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel. left: Heb. caused to cease unto thee kinsman: or, redeemer
15
And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him. a nourisher of: Heb. to nourish thine: Heb. thy gray hairs
16
And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it.
17
And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David.
18
Now these are the generations of Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Nurse.**—The verb (*aman*) here is that used in Isaiah 49:23, “and kings shall be thy *nursing fathers.” *That ordinarily used for the natural nursing of a woman is different.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Ruth. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Ruth 4:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.